Conventional Buoy
Mooring (CBM)
Conventional Buoy Mooring & Multi Buoy Mooring is the ideal mooring system where there are limited quay facilities, infrequent loading / offloading operations, and as an alternative to Single Point Mooring.
A Conventional Buoy Mooring (CBM) system comprises multiple steel buoys, typically four, to moor the tanker securely and prevent weathervaning.
The exact mooring configuration will depend on water depth, field requirements and environmental conditions. Each buoy is moored to the seabed with a single pendant chain to the bottom of the buoy. A secondary anchor is also included to prevent the primary anchor from being dislodged by adverse weather conditions.
To connect the tanker each buoy has a chain hawser assembly through the centre of the buoy unit, terminating in a chain stopper on deck. It also includes a quick release hook fitted with a sensor to indicate whether it is locked or open; this is monitored by the telemetry system.
During terminal operations a submarine hose attached to the terminal’s PLEM (Pipeline End Manifold) is recovered from the seabed and connected to the midship manifold to begin loading / offloading.
Buoy Control Systems
Each CBM buoy from Offspring International is fitted with a power system, navigation aid, hook release system, instrumentation / telemetry, tanker equipment and shore equipment.
Power for the equipment on the buoys is provided from solar-powered batteries to provide autonomous 24-hour operation, as well as hold sufficient capacity for multiple hook operations and prolonged periods of poor weather.
The buoys feature 10 nautical mile LED navigation light, and a radar reflector to enhance the ‘visibility’ of the buoy to nearby shipping. In addition, each buoy is fitted with a GPS receiver to provide accurate telemetry timing, as well as buoy positioning.
Download Offspring International’s Conventional Buoy Mooring Brochure to find out more information.
